Heavy Equipment Operator (Metal Recycling Yard)

We're looking for a skilled and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be responsible for operating various heavy machinery to efficiently lift, sort, move and process metal throughout our recycling yard. You'll play a key part in maintaining an organized and safe work environment, focusing on maximizing production while ensuring quality and safety.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including material handlers (magnets and grapple attachments), loaders, balers, and shears to safely lift, move, process, and position materials according to company quality standards.
• Operate equipment to load and move rail cars, ensuring proper procedures are followed.
• Contribute to meeting daily production goals and deadlines.
• Conduct pre-start checks and maintain accurate records of equipment use and maintenance.
• Adhere to all safety procedures and practices to prevent accidents and damage. Immediately report any safety hazards.
• Keep the yard clean and organized, ensuring all materials and debris are properly sorted and disposed of or recycled.
• Assist with unloading materials and answer basic questions regarding inventory and delivery status as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed primarily in an outdoor yard environment, subject to variations in temperature and weather, equipment noise and dust.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent

Work Experience

• Three+ years industry-related experience with tools and equipment is required

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Working knowledge of hazards and safety precautions common to heavy equipment operations
• Have the ability and willingness to learn to recognize and classify metals such as brass, copper, stainless steel, aluminum and others
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and on occasion up to 80 pounds
• Must be able to meet the physical demands of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Must be able to stand, walk, lift, bend, squat, stoop, etc. for long periods of time
• Must be willing to learn and strictly follow all company safety procedures
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to comprehend and follow written procedures, container labels and safety precautions
• Good attention to detail
• Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency